The best way to test a dimmer is to swap it out with another dimmer. Assortment of headlight dimmer switch wiring diagram.
How To Install A Dimmer Switch The Home Depot
How to test a dimmer switch. Disconnect the dimmer from the wires located. Remove the dimmer cover plate from the wall using the screwdriver. Press the dimmer assembly into the switch box. Testing any type of light switch takes a few basic tools. Thats it youre done. Headlight dimmer switch wiring diagram wiring diagram headlight dimmer switch inspirationa gm headlight switch wiring diagram download.
Dimmer switch tips and troubleshooting when buying a dimmer switch check the maximum load its rated for. If a dimmer is equipped for 500 watts and is given the task of turning on seven lights at 100 watts each it will work overtime and reach burnout relatively early in its suggested life span. When a dimmer switch fails the lights. A good rule is to not exceed more than 80 of the rate maximum for the dimmer switch. Dont over tighten the screws. How to tell if a dimmer switch is burned out.
Youll need screwdrivers usually one flat head and one phillips for removing the switch and disconnecting the switch wires. To test for ground switch on the power. Turn the function switch on your dmm to the ac voltage position. For example if it has a limit of 600 watts you wouldnt want to install the dimmer on a switch that controls 8 100 watt recessed lights. Using the screws provided attach the faceplate. Overlamping a dimmer switch is the most common reason a dimmer switch fails.
Install the two dimmer plate mounting screws. A dimmer cant control too many lights or it will surpass its maximum wattage. Replace the circuit fuse and test the dimmer. The service panel houses all of the breakers to a homes electrical system. If that one works the other one is bad. Turn the breaker to the dimmer circuit off at the service panel.
How to test a dimmer switch. Place the dimmer switch on a nonconducting surface such as a dry wooden workbench or a rubber mat to prevent potential shock hazard. If a fixture requires less than 4 watts or more than 600 watts you may want to reconsider using a dimmer. Dont worry if you hear a faint buzzing sound from the dimmer switch this is from the radio interference suppression coil fitted in it. Firstly such a dimmer is required to have a cover plate that is non combustible and is made of plastic. You also need a non contact voltage tester to check the switch and wires for power before touching them.
Click on the image to enlarge and then save it to your. If your dmm is. After that position the leads of the voltage tester between the metal box and screw terminal. You must also make certain that the bare metal parts are not exposed. Place the plastic cover plate over the dimmer and fasten in place with the two finish screws.